The Future of Tech and Learning with Josh Ellis
In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I chat with Josh Ellis to talk about technology, small business challenges, and an upcoming event focused on innovation. Josh shares that his work is all about helping small businesses with IT needs. Technology keeps evolving, but businesses still face the same core problems—broken printers, website issues, and processing orders. His goal is to make sure technology helps businesses run smoothly.
We discuss the Raspberry Jam event at the University of Charleston’s Innovation Lab on March 15th. Josh attended last year and describes it as a gathering of young minds interested in technology. Attendees come from fields like computer science and mechanical engineering, getting hands-on experience with the tools of their future careers.
The event is built around the Raspberry Pi, a small but powerful computer, but it offers much more. There are student projects, 3D printing, and even gaming consoles. There will be giveaways, including a 3D printer, and opportunities for hands-on learning.
Josh brought his kids last year and saw firsthand how much they enjoyed it. He believes young people today have incredible opportunities with technology compared to previous generations. Years ago, understanding technology required extensive research and effort. Now, resources are easily available, and devices like the Raspberry Pi make learning accessible.
The Raspberry Jam features modules that guide participants through building and programming projects. It’s a great event for kids, especially those curious about how things work. If a child is always handing a screwdriver to an adult during repairs, this event is for them.
Reflecting on past technology, we talk about how advancements have made things smaller, faster, and more accessible. Tasks that once required bulky equipment can now be done with a pocket-sized device. This shift lowers barriers for young people to enter the tech industry and see real results from their efforts.
Even IT professionals can learn from events like this. Technology never stops changing, and staying ahead means constantly learning. The Raspberry Jam offers an opportunity for kids and adults to explore, create, and gain hands-on experience. The event is open to all ages and will provide a chance to discover and build with technology.
Sign-up here: https://jamwv.link/2025